The Nance: A Guide

The Nance, now playing at Pride Films & Plays, recreates the naughty, raucous world of burlesque’s heyday and tells the backstage story of Chauncey Miles and his fellow performers. Read on for why this is the show to see.

Tony Awards-Approved.

Photo Credit: PBS

The original Broadway production premiered at Lincoln Center in 2013, starring Nathan Lane as Chauncey. Directed by Jack O’Brien, it garnered five nominations and won three, so you know you’re in for some critically acclaimed material.

An Entertaining & Important Piece of History.

Photo Credit: TodayTix

The “nance” is a negative slang for gay men and also refers to a stock character in burlesque, an exaggerated, campy, effeminate persona. In eras less accepting of LGBTQ folks, the “nance” was often played by a straight man, ridiculing the idea of a gay man. In Beane’s story, we follow Chauncey Miles, a gay man in the 1930s who plays a flaming stereotype onstage but has to keep his sexuality a secret.

The Vaudeville & Burlesque Numbers.

Photo Credit: Pride Films and Plays

Since the play takes place at the famed Irving Place Theater during the heyday of burlesque, you can bet that your eyes and ears are in for a treat when you buy a ticket to The Nance. Between bits of serious drama, the talented ensemble will razzle dazzle you with famous songs and sketches with of the era with “museum-accurate period authenticity.” (Windy City Chicago)